Fresh water or freshwater is any naturally occurring liquid or frozen water containing low concentrations of dissolved salts and other total dissolved solids. The term excludes seawater and brackish water, …

DEC protects the land, water, and air resources in New York. Whether it is addressing climate change effects, promoting responsible waste management, monitoring air quality, overseeing contaminated …

Aug 7, 2025 · Freshwater biomes support an astonishing diversity of life. Though they make up only about 3% of Earth’s water, they host 10% of all known animal species and 40% of all fish species.

Apr 3, 2025 · Every living thing on Earth needs water to survive, but more than 100,000 species, including our own, need a special kind of water that can only be found in certain places and is in very …

Jul 29, 2025 · From sustaining agriculture and energy to shaping landscapes and communities, freshwater is essential. NASA’s Earth science data helps the nation manage this vital resource, …

Jun 16, 2025 · Freshwater ecosystems are characterized by their low salt concentration, typically less than 1% (or 1 part per thousand). This distinguishes them from marine and estuarine ecosystems. …

Aug 27, 2025 · Rivers and streams are flowing bodies of freshwater. Most originate in elevated areas like mountains and hills from rainfall and melting snow. As water flows downhill, small streams form …

Water is essential to life on Earth. It has three phases (solid, liquid, and gas). In these three phases, water ties together the major parts of the Earth’s climate system — air, clouds, the ocean, lakes, …

Jun 8, 2018 · The definition of freshwater is water containing less than 1,000 milligrams per liter of dissolved solids, most often salt. As a part of the water cycle, Earth's surface-water bodies are …

Explore the rich biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems and learn about critical conservation efforts to protect these vital habitats.